Episode 221: Dr. Lindsey Parnarouskis - Food Insecurity and Food Addiction

In this powerful episode of Food Junkies, we dive deep into the intersection of food insecurity and food addiction with special guest Dr. Lindsey Parnarouskis. Dr. Parnarouskis, a researcher specializing in food addiction and public health, shares groundbreaking insights on how socioeconomic factors and access to food impact addiction-like eating behaviors.

From her research at the Food and Addiction Science and Treatment Lab to her latest studies on the role of stress, intermittent access to food, and ultra-processed food consumption, Dr. Parnarouskis sheds light on the social justice implications of food addiction. Together, we explore the barriers faced by food-insecure individuals, how stress amplifies cravings, and what clinicians, policymakers, and society can do to create lasting change.

🔑 Key Topics Discussed:

• Dr. Parnarouskis' journey into food addiction research
• The strong link between food insecurity and food addiction (people experiencing food insecurity are almost four times more likely to struggle with food addiction)
• How stress, financial fear, and limited access to whole foods reinforce addiction-like eating patterns
• The withdrawal experience in food-insecure populations and how it mirrors other addictive substances
• Why policy-level interventions—like expanding SNAP benefits, increasing access to whole foods, and regulating the food industry—are critical for preventing and addressing food addiction
• The importance of harm reduction and meeting individuals where they are in recovery
• How clinicians can screen for food insecurity and adjust interventions to be more compassionate and effective

🌍 Why This Conversation Matters:
Food insecurity is not just about hunger—it’s about the quality of food available, the stress of not knowing where your next meal comes from, and the long-term effects of relying on ultra-processed foods. Dr. Parnarouskis emphasizes that food addiction is not just a personal responsibility issue—it’s a systemic issue that demands policy changes, social support, and a more compassionate approach to treatment.

📚 About Dr. Lindsey Parnarouskis
Dr. Lindsey Parnarouskis is a clinical psychologist and Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Drexel University Center for Weight, Eating, and Lifestyle Science. She completed her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at the University of Michigan and her predoctoral internship at the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine. Dr. Parnarouskis’ research seeks to understand the role of economic marginalization in developing and treating overeating concerns, to inform novel clinical and policy interventions.

📩 Join the Conversation:

• Share your thoughts on social media using #FoodJunkiesPodcast
• please email us: [email protected]

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The content of our show is educational only. It does not supplement or supersede your healthcare provider's professional relationship and direction. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified mental health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, substance use disorder, or mental health concern.